While many grey nomads travel with metal detectors, a recent incident in Queensland serves as a reminder that the pursuit does carry with it certain responsibilities.
Aside from the expectation of only searching in appropriate and allowed areas, and filling in any holes dug, there are also certain requirements relating to certain finds.
A man with a metal detector who recently found and removed a number of maritime artefacts, including 48 musket balls, has found himself in hot water with authorities.
Queensland’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) says the items, that may date back to 1799 and be of huge historical significance, were removed illegally.
Musket balls, a square nail and plum bob dating back to 1799. PIC: DETSI
DETSI Cultural Heritage Coordinator Dr Anthony Simmons said the musket balls and maritime artefacts could be physical evidence of historical events, and it was important they be preserved.
“Under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, people must report the discovery of significant archaeological artefacts to DETSI,” he said. “When the man offered the artefacts for sale, a concerned member of the public contacted DETSI … following our investigation, the man was issued with a caution.”
Based upon notes recorded by Captain Matthew Flinders, DETSI says the items may have been in his possession in July 1799. As the first British explorer to enter Moreton Bay, Flinders spent two weeks in the area on HM sloop Norfolk.
On 16 July 1799, the Flinders crew is believed to have fired a musket at Skirmish Point and then left behind a shot belt containing musket balls. According to his notes, Flinders was also at White Patch on July 23, 1799.
Dr Simmons says the artefacts could be associated with the incidents recorded in Flinders’s notes.
All of the artefacts have now been donated to the Queensland Museum for permanent preservation.
They include:
# Have you ever found something that you thought might be of historical significance when out metal detecting? Comment below.
WIN ONE OF TWO HISTORIC WINTON DOUBLE PASSES
Grey Nomad members are being given the chance to win one of two double passes for the 49th Historic Winton to be held May 30-31 at Winton Motor Raceway in Victoria.
Camping is available at the event.
Click here for details of the prize.
Well hell, we’re not going to say anything now!
